LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- About 6.9 million viewers tuned in for the U.K. premiere of the Downton Abbey series finale on Christmas night, ITV announced.

The beloved, British costume ended its six-season run with the holiday episode.

Created by Julian Fellowes, the 1920s-set show follows the lives of the wealthy Crawley family and the loyal servants who work for them at their country estate. It stars Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith and Brendan Coyle.

"The @DowntonAbbey Christmas Special won its slot & was the most watched programme of the night on Christmas Day, with 6.9m/30% share," the British broadcaster said via Twitter.

The program's final season will begin airing Jan. 3 in the United States on PBS.

The @DowntonAbbey Christmas Special won its slot & was the most watched programme of the night on Christmas Day, with 6.9m/30% share.